Thank you for the information. I really didn't know that RO and the card expiry were different things. I thought they referred to the same period of time. Due to the pandemic I haven't traveled back to Canada since 2020. Just checked my resident days in Canada and it is 44 days looking back five years now. I guess as you said it's very possible I would face a warning or a report. I'm planning to move back to Canada this year, possibly this April if things go well. So do you have any recommendation that could guide me through? Thank you! I appreciate your time and help.
44 days in Canada since 2017 is not a lot, esp after a renewal. (I"m still wondering how you were able to get card renewed in 2019 if you were not resident in Canada most of 2017-2019. If there's something you're not owning up about, that may complicate things. I presume for example that you had met your RO prior to the card being renewed then).
I think the only significant bits of advice that can be given are:
-Tell the truth, briefly, concisely when asked questions. Don't go into very long explanations or volunteer excess detail. Just the facts.
-You likely will be asked why so much out of compliance - reasons. You can search for what the humanitarian and compassionate factors taken into consideration are (the official reasons why they can be lenient). Figure out in advance what your reasons are.
-Covid can be (and is) a reason that will be taken into consideration - but you should expect to be more detailed. Constraints on travel, health concerns or issues, economic concerns, family issues, etc. Ties to Canada and the like are a factor as well.
-While it's probably unlikely they will look at supporting documents or evidence you have in detail, they
might look at some briefly (and having it to hand with you might be helpful.) It doesn't mean you have to have an encyclopedia of proof with you - but having something to hand to show if asked (eg if you or a family member was hospitalized or receiving care).
-I believe it's fair to say they will likely be more lenient if it is clear that you are returning to Canada to stay, and to stay permanently. Make that case credibly, eg employment family housing whatever. As credibly as you can. If you come across as credible and sincere, it will help.
-Be prepared to stay in Canada afterwards with zero or as limited travel as possible until you are back in compliance. Even if you're just waved through or verbal warning, leniency today does not mean it will be extended in future.
-If they go through the process of formally reporting you (the start of the process to revoke PR status), you will still be let into Canada and can appeal. That'll be the chance to have more complete documentation prepared in advance. While that is going on, you can work and live in Canada like anyone else - remaining in and being settled won't hurt your case on appeal.
Good luck.
